Steven Zhang’s moving farewell to Inter Milan

Steven Zhang's emotional farewell to Inter

The’now former Inter president Steven Zhang has entrusted social media with his parting words to the Nerazzurri company via a post on Instagram with nine photos containing his very long farewell letter. Here is what Zhang wrote.

"Dear Inter Inter fans, goodbyes are never easy, especially when you have to say goodbye to someone you love. In life, everything has a beginning and an end. I always knew that one day I would have to say goodbye. The simple truth; è that I was not ready and probably never would be.

Eight years ago, when as a 24-year-old boy I entered the San Siro for the first time to attend a soccer game, I had absolutely no idea what awaited me. The incredible emotions felt that day have since guided my decisions all these years. This unique Nerazzurri world accepted me immediately, filling me with passion, joy and so much love. Since then I have grown a lot on a personal level, and I will carry this forever in my heart.

At the beginning of my presidency I promised to take Inter back to the top, where it had always been. In these eight years we won seven trophies, two European finals and won the Serie A championship twice. The legendary Second Star è a testament to our success. After major investments and countless hours of work, Inter has been transformed into a modern, innovative and winning club at the highest level of European soccer.

In the last three days I have received so many messages, calls and posts from all of you. I must admit that this made me feel loved, but it also made this farewell even more difficult. Thanks to Inter, I have found people who are like family to me today, whom I will treasure for the rest of my life.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my managers, Ale and Beppe, Javier, Piero, Dario, Luca, Matteo, Angelo, Andrea, Lionel, Mark…who have put up with me, supported me, protected me, and taught me how to be a president. I also want to thank all our staff, who from Viale della Liberazione, Appiano, Interello and San Siro have worked diligently to grow the Club and achieve the incredible successes of our beloved Inter.

Special thanks go to our former players and current two-star champions. Many of you treated me as a friend, including me in your group as if I were one of you, the bond we had went far beyond that between president and players. My deepest gratitude also goes to all of our coaches, especially Simone Inzaghi, a man with true and strong values in his heart, whom I was fortunate to have during my presidency.

Finally, Inter would not be Inter without our fantastic fans. Thank you all for your beautiful messages. It really means a lot to me in these very emotional moments. I look forward to joining you in the stands of the San Siro and singing for our Inter, perhaps from the Curva Nord.

To those who will take this Society forward, please love our Inter, protect its people and, above all, respect its core value. È it is a great honor and responsibility to assume the leadership of Inter. With love and care, Inter will repay you with enormous results, excitement and joy. For me è it has been the greatest honor of my life.

Forza Inter always. Love it! Always one of You, Steven".